Tragedy struck in Scottsdale as the Silver Alert for 85-year-old Robert Pollman, who vanished from the Brookhaven Assisted Living facility on Sunday, concluded with the discovery of his body on Tuesday night. Scottsdale Police confirmed the grim outcome stating, "We are saddened to report that Mr. Pollman was located deceased last night," as reported by KTAR.com. Pollman had only been a resident at the facility for two weeks and was not familiar with the surrounding locale.
Sergeant Allison Sempsis of the Scottsdale Police detailed the extensive search efforts, which included drone technology, canine units, ATVs, and the help of the local community, as stated by FOX 10 Phoenix. The arduous operation was further complicated by the blistering Arizona heat, with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, that time is of the essence, regarding his advanced age and vulnerability.
Found near Gold Dust Avenue, approximately a quarter mile from Brookhaven, the cause of Pollman's death is yet to be determined. Previous inspections of the assisted living facility by the Arizona Department of Health Services highlighted fines and violations concerning the security of entries and exits, including a lack of alert system on a sliding glass door, raising questions about the circumstances of Pollman's departure.
The medical examiner has taken over the case, and a death investigation is currently underway. Confirming the receipt of the body, Sergeant Sempsis conveyed to FOX 10 Phoenix that the medical examiner would take over the case to determine the cause of death, and time of death and confirm his identity. The Scottsdale Police thanked the community for their concerted efforts and asked for collective condolences to be extended to Pollman’s family.
